For Immediate Release

Saturday, Nov. 23, 2019

Media Contact: Jordan Mayblum
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: [email protected]

Shrewsbury Fire Department Extinguishes Kitchen Fire

SHREWSBURY — Chief James Vuona reports that the Shrewsbury Fire Department responded to a house fire Saturday afternoon.

At 1:16 p.m., Shrewsbury firefighters were dispatched to 8 Phillips Court following a 911 call reporting a kitchen fire. While en route, firefighters were advised by responding Shrewsbury Police officers that flames were visible from the outside of the home.

Upon arrival, Engine 2 crews observed heavy smoke and fire from one side of the building and initiated an external attack. Crews from Tower 1 arrived on scene a short time later and also contributed to the effort to extinguish the flames, while crews from Engine 3 made entry to the home to overhaul the kitchen area.

Firefighters inside the home determined that fire had extended into the kitchen ceiling and quickly extinguished the flames.

Northborough and Westborough firefighters also responded to the scene to provide mutual aid, while off-duty crews were also requested to the scene to assist in the response.

A preliminary investigation indicates that the fire started on a stove top, which was mistakenly left on, igniting a box that was on top of a burner. The homeowner reported that he was alerted to the fire by the smell of smoke inside the home.

“The firefighters who responded today did a tremendous job working quickly and contain the fire unfortunately the fire spread quickly throughout the open floor plan of the home causing extensive damage,” Chief Vuona said. “This is an unfortunate reminder of the importance of ensuring stove tops are off when they’re not in use, and that they’re not left unsupervised when that are in use.”

The lone occupant at home was able to escape safely, and there were no injuries.

The Fire displaced a family of four and the Red Cross and Shrewsbury Youth and Family Services are providing assistance to the family.

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